There are many applications in which fiberglass is now being used as an aluminum alternative. Since the 1920s, aluminum has been a favorite choice in the construction industry because of its high corrosion resistance and solid strength. However, in recent years, fiberglass has become an alternative material for a number of additional reasons. In this blog post, we will look at why fiberglass is an ideal aluminum alternative and what fiberglass properties stand out when choosing fencing materials.

What Are the Differences Between Fiberglass and Aluminum?

Fiberglass is one of the most versatile construction materials available due to its high strength-to-weight ratio, making it light but strong. Fiberglass is tougher and more durable than aluminum as well as being resistant to damage bending or breaking. Aluminum is also more prone to corrosion and therefore requires more maintenance than fiberglass.

Why Is Fiberglass a Better Material for Fencing?

Depending on the industry and where the fencing is required, fiberglass is an excellent choice of material. For example, facilities that require safety measures in areas where electricity is prevalent demand a more suitable alternative compared to metal materials.

Fiberglass has a very low electrical conductivity rate and will not interrupt or interfere with the transmission of electronic signals and therefore fiberglass fences do not generally need to be firmly grounded to be deemed safe. The low conductivity aspect also plays a role in the low maintenance of fiberglass.

When considering fiberglass as an aluminum alternative, fiberglass is the better option because it does not conduct heat and has high corrosion resistance. When the sun is blazing down on the fencing, it will not be hot to touch like a metal material would be. Metal fences would require additional maintenance to keep people safe from burns. Additionally, less maintenance is necessary because the fiberglass fences will not rust or corrode.

Benefits of Fiberglass

Fiberglass boasts numerous advantages over aluminum in terms as a building material. When looking at fencing specifically, the key benefits of using fiberglass include its resilience and lightweight properties. Other points to consider include the below:

Stronger: Fiberglass has an unmatchable strength-to-weight performance ratio.

Long life: Fiberglass is a long-lasting, durable material that is perfect for outdoor and construction applications.

Weather-resistant: Corrosion-resistant, able to endure heavy rain and standing water and undamaged by extreme cold or heat, Fiberglass is an ideal material for outdoor purposes.

Lightweight: Heavy no longer means strong, as fiberglass has proved. Fiberglass is a far lighter material than aluminum, steel and other construction materials.

Low electrical conductivity: It is also a safer material for people to work with and around owing to its low electrical conductivity.

Strongwell is one of the world’s leading manufacturers of fiberglass and if you’re looking to use fiberglass in your fencing or would like more information on our fiberglass products, please contact us via the form and we will be in touch shortly.